
San Giovanni decollato 1940
Steeped in the golden glow of 1940 Italian cinema, San Giovanni decollato (1940) is a sparkling comedy directed by Amleto Palermi that blends devotion with domestic chaos.
Director: Amleto Palermi
Cast







Frequently Asked Questions
What is San Giovanni decollato (1940) about?
This vintage Italian comedy follows Mastr'Antonio Miciaccio, a shoemaker so devoted to Saint John the Beheaded that he's determined to uncover who's stealing the oil from his sacred candle. The hunt for the culprit soon collides with his disapproval of his daughter's suitor—a conflict that escalates into a series of uproarious misunderstandings.
Who directed San Giovanni decollato?
Amleto Palermi directed this classic 1940 comedy, blending sharp social satire with the irreverent humor that defined early Italian cinema.
Who stars in San Giovanni decollato?
The film stars comedy legends Totò as Mastr'Antonio, Titina De Filippo, Bella Starace Sainati, Silvana Jachino, and Franco Coop in pivotal roles.
Is San Giovanni decollato (1940) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, San Giovanni decollato offers timeless comic timing and a charming snapshot of 1940s Italian life. Its blend of farce, family dynamics, and folkloric charm makes it a delightful watch for fans of classic comedy.
How long is San Giovanni decollato?
San Giovanni decollato runs for 81 minutes, a perfect length for a lighthearted, engaging comedy.
About San Giovanni decollato (1940): A Comedy of Faith, Oil, and Family Frenzy
Steeped in the golden glow of 1940 Italian cinema, San Giovanni decollato (1940) is a sparkling comedy directed by Amleto Palermi that blends devotion with domestic chaos. At its heart is Mastr'Antonio Miciaccio, a superstitious shoemaker and caretaker whose entire existence revolves around a single, perpetually burning candle to Saint John the Beheaded. When the sacred oil mysteriously vanishes, his life spirals into a hilarious whirlwind of suspicions, schemes, and uproarious confrontations—especially with the overzealous father who disapproves of his daughter's romantic choices. With sharp wit, physical comedy, and a touch of Neapolitan charm, this classic film captures the absurdity of clinging to tradition while navigating family drama.
Totò, the legendary comedian, stars as the bewildered yet endearing Mastr'Antonio, backed by a stellar cast including Titina De Filippo and Bella Starace Sainati, whose performances bring warmth and levity to every scene. Set against a backdrop of rustic Italian life, San Giovanni decollato is more than a farce—it's a playful exploration of faith, generational clashes, and the lengths people go to protect what they hold dear.